depression

What Are The Four Types of Allostatic Load? A Deep Dive into the Body’s Stress Response

What Are The Four Types of Allostatic Load? A Deep Dive into the Body’s Stress Response

In the ever-evolving landscape of health and wellness, the term "allostatic load" is gaining prominence. At its core, allostatic load refers to the physiological consequences of chronic exposure to fluctuating or heightened neural or neuroendocrine responses, primarily arising from stress. To put it simply, it's the wear and tear on our bodies due to chronic stress. In this article, we will unpack the significance of allostatic load, its various types, and their implications on overall health.

“Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.”

“Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.”

The month of March reflects the overlooked contributions of women and continues spreading awareness of the injustices and discrimination women encounter. This blog post, written by Brittany Spencer, LCPC, located in Baltimore, Maryland, highlights the strength of being a woman and ways to support your female peers and highlight their acknowledgment.

Getting Ahead of Seasonal Depressive Symptoms

Getting Ahead of Seasonal Depressive Symptoms

If you have experienced a fall-time dip in mood, be it the winter blues or SAD, you are likely aware that when a decrease in motivation and loss of interest in typically pleasurable activities takes hold, it can be much more difficult to reengage with the things that make you happy or bring you meaning. “Getting ahead” of seasonal depressive symptoms does not necessarily mean preventing them. This blog post, written by Kat Filipov, LGPC, located in Baltimore, Maryland, explores the symptoms of SAD and winter blues, how to distinguish them and ways to get ahead of seasonal depressive symptoms.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and how does it Affect You?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and how does it Affect You?

Have you ever taken inventory of how your mood changes during seasonal shifts? Perhaps that moody feeling you can’t exactly put your finger on or the sudden snap of your energy that was once fueled by warm weather and outside gatherings. Chances are, Seasonal Affective Disorder could be a contributing factor. This blog post, written by Brittany Spencer, LCPC, located in Baltimore, Maryland, explores what Seasonal Affective Disorder is, its signs and symptoms, how to distinguish it from winter blues, and when to seek support.

The Impact of Mental Health on Hygiene Struggles

The Impact of Mental Health on Hygiene Struggles

Whether it’s doing dishes in a timely manner or showering regularly—there is a lot of shame around not being able to keep up with your hygiene. Hygiene is a moralized topic in our society—meaning we often view those who struggle with hygiene as less than or failing in some way. This post by Abby Smith, LGPC, explores how these judgments fail to recognize the impact of mental health on hygiene.